Elon and DOGE, merely connecting the Dots

Many of us that have worked in the private sector have been exposed to programs aimed at cost-cutting and improving business efficiency. These programs often rely on forensic audits of current processes, technology, and employees’ roles. They are designed to provide a comprehensive snapshot of your business today and how it will evolve once processes, technology, and roles are better aligned. Preventing unnecessary costs through process redesign leads to more efficient operations and timelines, resulting in downstream cost reductions. By implementing repeatable processes, integrated into policy, technology, and role-based duties, businesses can eliminate costs and reduce negative impacts, resulting in cost savings and fewer headaches in the long run- this is not “rocket science” but merely sound business practices. 

This concept is not new. It has been around for decades, providing opportunities for large accounting firms to secure expensive contracts. Many of these contracts are structured to earn a portion of the savings realized once their projects are implemented. Fortunately, Donald Trump appointed Elon Musk to lead the new “Department of Government Efficiency” involving no risk and/or cost to the government.  Musk is known for running highly efficient companies with low waste and fraud margins. It’s a novel concept to extend this same approach to the taxpayer finally.

There’s nothing worse than asking an employee why they perform their duties a certain way and hearing, “Because that’s how it’s always been done.” It’s time to start questioning employee roles and actions. Through forensic audits of transactions across various government departments, Musk and his team are uncovering inefficiencies, waste, and inaccuracies that have gone unnoticed for years. Unfortunately, these audits are also revealing the extent of potential corruption and fraud. This is not meant to undermine the honest, hardworking individuals currently working in government departments. However, careless mistakes are contributing to the quagmire, as well as nefarious actors working among them.  

By failing to rigorously monitor and audit transactions, we’ve allowed accruals to balloon to levels that would raise flags for anyone, whether or not they have an accounting background. The approval process and proper governance of ledger accounts have not been followed. It’s time to hold government bureaucrats accountable, provide accurate reporting of projected versus spent dollars and establish regular third-party audits. Transparency and sunlight is the best way to eliminate outdated policies, inefficient business practices, and time-wasting procedures. Time is money.

Moreover, it’s time to identify roles and positions that are ineffective and do not add value to our bloated government. While the benefits may take time to materialize, in the long run, taxpayers will be better off. By connecting the dots and following the money, we can ensure a more efficient government, resulting in happier taxpayers and a more productive workforce.

Rocket Man press on at best speed and don’t let those that doth protest too much get in your way.